The Santa Fe National Forest finally released its draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for Travel Management to the public today. The Forest Service is proposing to close over 2900 miles (53%) of the existing roads on the Forest. Even the most 'vehicle-friendly' alternative considered closes nearly half of the roads currently available.

This will affect all motorized vehicles: cars, trucks, Jeeps, motorcycles, and ATVs. It will also have a profound impact on all members of the public who use the Forest including hunters. According to the proposal, there are currently 5458 miles of roads and trails that people are using. The Forest Service's drastic proposal reduces this to around 2500 miles.

The public has 45 days to comment on these issues by submitting letters or emails. The Forest Service's proposal and alternatives are in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Travel Management on the Santa Fe National Forest. The full text of the draft document is on the Santa Fe National Forest Travel Management website. The end date for 45 day comment period has not yet been established as the deadline is based on the date the official notice is publised in the Federal Register. Only those people or organizations who provide comments during this 45-day comment period will be eligible to appeal the final decision when it is released later this year.

The purpose of the proposal is implementing Travel Management by designating a motorized road and trail system on the Santa Fe National Forest. Designation will include class of vehicle and time of year for allowable motor vehicle use. The decision will result in the publication of a Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) that shows when and what roads are open. After the MVUM has been released, ALL other motorized travel will be prohibited.

Eight public meetings will be held August 8-18 in the various communties in and around the Santa Fe National Forest. This will be an opportunity to meet with the Forest Service and ask questions about the project and the proposed closures. The format for each of these meetings will include an open house, a presentation, a question and answer session, and a listening session.

You will find a link the detailed time and location of each meeting to the left.

Comments can be submitted by postal mail, email, fax. hand delivery or orally. Specific instructions and contact information are available here.

If you have questions about the DEIS or making comments, please contact the Travel Management Project Leader, Julie Bain, at (505) 505-438-5443 or sftravelmgt@fs.fed.us.

Remember: Only those people or organizations who provide comments during this 45-day comment period will be eligible to appeal the final decision!